BelmavsBarbe Rouge
Belma (dual purpose) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Belma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
OrangeStrawberryBerryCitrus
Only in Belma
MelonPineappleGrapefruitTropical
Only in Barbe Rouge
KumquatLimeRedcurrantRaspberryFloralHerbal
Property
| Property | Belma | Barbe Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 3.8–10% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 3.3–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | - | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | 1.1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 35–60% |
| Humulene | - | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 2–4% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–4% |
| Origin | United States | France |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Huell Melon
Pacific Gem